Off-Campus Housing Resources

The Office of Residential Services is committed to assisting incoming and matriculating students in securing affordable, adequate off campus housing through the below on resources and services which can help you complete a successful search. Although we can provide you with information on a broad range of housing related issues, we do not make off-campus housing arrangements. All rental arrangements and agreements are made between the tenants and landlords. Our staff does not meet with or inspect any landlord who lists their apartment with us. We do not offer legal assistance, but can refer you to agencies that offer help.

Video Guide to Off-Campus Housing

Off-Campus Living Guide

This presentation will provide you with basic information about navigating your Off-Campus housing search. We want you to be well prepared for your transition to your new apartment so we have researched and designed useful tips, facts and helpful resources that will prepare you to be an educated tenant. Each page takes you through a guided ten step process; starting with an introduction of what services we provide, what you should consider before deciding to live off-campus, how to draft a budget sheet, imperative questions to ask the landlord or realtor, to why having a good credit score is important.

Information Sessions

We conducted an Off-Campus Information Session via Webinar in the summer. A streaming recording of this Webinar can be downloaded here: Off-Campus Housing Webinar. You will need to download the WebEx ARF viewer to watch the Webinar.

Additional Resources

OCHA helps Columbia affiliates in their search for rental housing in non-Columbia owned buildings located in the metropolitan area. OCHA maintains a Web site and regular office hours to provide advice, resources, and an online database of available housing.

International House provides housing to selected graduate students and interns representing more than 100 countries around the world each year. I-House offers educational, cultural and recreational opportunities to interact with others of divergent backgrounds in a friendly, informal manner.